In a battle of wits and mathematical intelligence, Civil Engineering students of Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU) – Main Campus made their mark by securing the 1st Runner-Up in the National Civil Engineering Quiz 2023 held at the University of the Philippines – Diliman on September 30.
The university’s representatives, Joseph Ong and Darlyn Abalos battled against 99 teams hailing from 56 state universities and colleges (SUCs) and private higher education institutions (HEIs).
The winning team who was trained and guided by coach Engr. Mark Kevin T. Cidro received a cash prize amounting to 20,000 pesos and a hundred percent discount when they enroll at Review Innovations.
In an interview, Joseph Ong expressed that he was not expecting to finish in the second spot since scores are not flashed and they had a face-off with Technological Institute of the Philippines (TIP) in the clincher round.
“We were not expecting 2nd place. Hindi kasi naka flash yung scores. We were just happy na nag qualify kami for final round together with other 4 teams. Then nag-clincher round kami together with TIP, and luckily we got the point. We thought the clincher was for third place. We were happy nevertheless. And when they announced the 3rd place, it was TIP and everyone was shock. It was surreal. 2nd place pala kami,” Ong stressed.
Moreover, he underscored that with strong courage, countless hours of studying and unrelenting support from his friends and mentors helped them secured the spot and made it as a source of motivation and a reminder that success is a team effort.
“Special thanks to our mentor, Sir Mark Kevin Cidro and also to Kuya Bruce Lariba, sa CE faculty for excusing us in our classes for the preparations, sa PICE and sa among mga sangkay,” he added.
Meanwhile, Engr. Mark Kevin T. Cidro stated all their preparations and expressed his gratitude towards the student-quizzers and to the university in all its support after covering all the expenses of their registrations, accommodations and travel fees.
“August palang nag re-review na kami. Ang lawak kasi ng coverage ng quiz bee ng UP. We are just lucky, na we had students na very interested in this kind of competitions. We are also thankful kay sir Lesiguez sa support niya,” Engr. Cidro said.
He also indicated that it was the university’s first participation in that prestigious event as per to his knowledge, so being selected for the semi-final round was itself an accomplishment for him.
In addition, the mentor extended his gratitude to all the people who supported their journey especially to the students who made the university be once again known in the country.
“To Darlyn, Joseph, Kristine and Bernard, thank you for doing your best. Salamat sa inyo at narinig nanaman ang pangalan ng EVSU sa National Level. Thank you din po sa lahat ng sumuporta. Sa EVSU Admin, CE Faculty, PICE MCSC, and CE students. Kaya naman pala ng EVSU. Next time, galingan pa natin,” he added.
Along with Ong and Abalos, another team comprised of Bernard Macabenta and Kristine Leona also competed in the said competition.
Meanwhile, Polytechnic University of the Philippines – Manila Team A was hailed as the champion while Technological Institute of the Philippines – Manila Team B was announced as 2nd Runner-Up.
Article by Jan Paul Ferreras